A Modern Modular At Home in Minneapolis

A small house on a small lot is the right choice for a growing family

When this project began, architect Eric Odor's clients hired him to remodel their bungalow in Minneapolis, but the renovation plans were more than the house's foundation could handle. By the time the project was done, Shane and Erinn Farrell were living in a new, energy-efficient, three-bedroom, 2-1/2-bath home. Early in the process, Odor and the Farrells decided to go with a house that would be panelized in a factory, then be transported to their site and assembled there. Panelization would save time and materials for this project. The team also made sustainability part of the plan, and the house was on track to be rated LEED gold. The house has a well-insulated envelope and highly efficient mechanical systems. Among the materials in the house's insulation mix are blown fiberglass, sprayed-in foam, and blown-in cellulose. The house has Energy Star appliances, low-e windows, dual-flush toilets, and low-flow faucets.